Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer or simply known as oral cancer is a condition that is divided into two categories oral cavity and oropharyngeal. An oral cavity affects areas like the lips, cheek lining, gums, teeth, tongue, as well as the floor and roof of the mouth. Oropharynx, on the other hand, affects the base of the tongue, tonsils, and even the throat.Cancer is considered as the most dreaded disease in the world, that is why some patients who are diagnosed with the condition feel like they have lost all their hopes. We at Dream Dental want to assure our patients that we are not only focused on keeping all their oral structures in great shape. It is also our mission to make sure that their overall health is healthy and well maintained. Aside from offering general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services, we also perform oral cancer screenings.

We believe that this procedure is sure to help our patients feel at ease and confident with the state of their overall oral health. The primary focus of oral cancer screenings is to detect irregularities in the mouth and surrounding areas that can possibly lead to oral cancer. To help our patients be aware of their health, here are some of the common signs they should watch out for:

• Lumps or thickening of either the linings or skin in the mouth
• A sudden change in the fitting of dental appliances like dentures
• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
• A sore that does not appear to heal and easily bleeds
• The looseness of the teeth
• Red or white patches on the mouth
• Pain or numbness anywhere in the mouth or lips
• Sudden weight loss
• Change in voice

Prevention for Oral Cancer

• It is best for smokers to stop their bad habit for it increases their chances of getting oral cancer. Smoking cigarettes or tobacco exposes the mouth to harmful chemicals that can potentially cause cancer.
• Stop drinking alcohol excessively since it has ethanol that can damage the healthy cells in the mouth. Acetaldehyde can also be produced when alcohol is digested by the body which is known as toxic and is a carcinogen.
• Make sure to eat plenty of healthy fruits and vegetables for it can lessen one’s risk of developing oral cancer.
• Avoid the direct contact of the sun to the lips but if it is unavoidable, using lip balms with SPF content is ideal.
• Schedule dental appointments at Dream Dental every six months for regular checkups, professional cleanings, and oral cancer screenings!

Aim for beautiful and healthier smiles with Advanced Oral Cancer Screenings in Goodlettsville, TN, Book your appointment with us at Dream Dental. We are located at 900 Conference Drive #6A, Goodlettsville, TN 37072.